Top 3 News Digest: Riches, Politics, and Scholarships
1. 7 Richest Countries in Asia – And Guess Who’s Swimming in Oil?
Well, folks, if you thought the only thing greasing palms was oil, think again! According to the Global Innovation Index 2024, it’s not just the oil wells running over; the economic prowess of nations is bubbling well, too. Singapore tops this shiny little list! Who’d have thought the country that brought us the world’s fanciest airport also leads in innovation? Makes you want to check if your shoes are polished before you step into an elevator there.
Qatar and the UAE also join the rich kids’ table, sitting pretty in the GDP rankings. It’s a small world after all—as long as you’re a Gulf state with oil reserves!
2. Prabowo Hits the Road – Who’s Running the Show?
Oh, Prabowo, you’ve decided to take a little jaunt around the globe. Going to China, the land of ‘one child policy and many dragons’; the USA, where dreams are built on drive-thrus; Peru, home of the remarkable potato; Brazil, where they dance like nobody’s watching; and England, where it’s practically a national pastime to complain about the weather!
While President Prabowo is out making friends, his trusty sidekick, VP Gibran, is left juggling the government. Just imagine the cabinet meetings: ‘Okay, who had the best bonding experience with a foreign minister this week?’ The tension! The drama! Will there be popcorn?
3. NUS Opens Scholarly Gates: Scholarships for ASEAN – Following the Money!
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is rolling out the welcome mat for ASEAN undergraduates in 2025, but only for those who aren’t from the ‘Lion City’ itself—cue the friendly tug-of-war over student loans! If you’re a fresh-faced student dreaming of a scholarship, NUS is throwing a tantalizing offer that includes tuition and hefty allowances. It’s like being given the keys to the city… well, sort of. More like keys to the campus.
But do students know what they’re in for? A one-time computer allowance worth S$1,750 and living expenses that might make you feel like a king or queen—until you realize the local hawker food is cheaper than a cup of coffee back home!
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Tempo English compiled the top news highlights on Friday, November 8, 2024. The following topics made headlines: the wealth status of Asian countries, dominance of oil-producing nations, Prabowo’s delegation of responsibilities during his overseas trip, and a scholarship opportunity for ASEAN undergraduates offered by Singapore’s NUS.
1. 7 Richest Countries in Asia, Oil Producing Nations Dominate
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The Global Innovation Index 2024 highlights significant economic advancements and innovations across various Asian nations. Singapore stands out as the most innovative country in the region, reflecting its robust technology sector and entrepreneurial spirit.
Beyond innovation, Singapore, Qatar, and the UAE emerge as Asia’s leading economies based on their impressive Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rankings, illustrating the influence of oil and gas industries in shaping their economic landscapes, according to data from the World Atlas.
2. Prabowo Entrusts VP Gibran, Cabinet to Run Government During His Overseas Trip
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto is currently on his inaugural state visit, which kicked off on November 8, 2024, encompassing five key countries—China, the United States, Peru, Brazil, and England—for critical diplomatic engagements aimed at enhancing Indonesia’s global partnerships.
He is joined by Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya during this extensive two-week engagement, showcasing Indonesia’s commitment to fostering international relations.
3. Singapore’s NUS to Open 2025 Scholarship for ASEAN Undergraduates
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The National University of Singapore (NUS) has announced its intention to launch a new undergraduate scholarship program in 2025 specifically designed for students from ASEAN nations, with the exception of Singapore itself.
The program seeks to alleviate financial burdens for freshmen by providing comprehensive support, including covered tuition fees, a living allowance of S$5,800, a S$3,000 accommodation allowance, along with a one-time computer grant of S$1,750, thus promoting higher education within the region.
TEMPO
**Interview with Dr. Alia Rahman, Political Analyst at the Jakarta Institute of International Relations**
**Interviewer:** Good day, Dr. Rahman! Thank you for joining us. Today we’re discussing the recent news about Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto embarking on his first international trip to China. What are your initial thoughts on this visit?
**Dr. Rahman:** Thank you for having me! I believe this trip is quite significant for Prabowo as it sets the tone for his presidency. His choice to visit China first underscores Indonesia’s intention to strengthen ties with one of its largest trading partners. Given the current global economic conditions, this could benefit Indonesia immensely.
**Interviewer:** Absolutely! He’s also visiting several other countries such as the USA and Brazil. What does this multi-country tour signify for Indonesia’s foreign policy direction?
**Dr. Rahman:** Prabowo’s broader schedule of visits indicates a shift towards a more active and assertive foreign policy. By reaching out to diverse nations, from economic powerhouses like the USA to culturally rich regions like Brazil, he aims to position Indonesia as a crucial player on the global stage. It reflects a willingness to explore new partnerships and perhaps even diversify trade relationships beyond traditional allies.
**Interviewer:** Interesting! Now, while Prabowo is away, his Vice President, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is taking charge. What challenges do you foresee for him during this period?
**Dr. Rahman:** Gibran stepping into the spotlight presents both opportunities and challenges. The primary challenge is maintaining domestic stability while Prabowo is abroad. He’ll need to manage any emerging issues at home, and that includes keeping communication open with both the public and the cabinet. This is a test for his leadership skills, and it could set the precedent for their partnership moving forward.
**Interviewer:** Definitely a critical time for the Vice President. Lastly, what implications do you think Prabowo’s trip could have for Indonesia’s domestic politics?
**Dr. Rahman:** This trip might solidify Prabowo’s image as a global leader, which could enhance his popularity domestically as he represents Indonesia on the world stage. However, it also put pressure on him to deliver tangible成果 from these meetings. If he returns with beneficial agreements or partnerships, it could solidify his standing. Conversely, if expectations are not met, it could lead to discontent among citizens and political rivals.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Dr. Rahman! This will certainly be a trip to watch closely for its impact on both international relations and domestic politics in Indonesia.
**Dr. Rahman:** Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how this plays out.
